Journo told to leave courtroom for attending a hearing in a T-shirt (April 20, 2013 )

 My quick comment on the T-shirt wearing incident is that, although it was embarrassing to our colleague Ghanashyam Khadka, who is an able journalist and a cultured professional, this is perfectly in line with the prevailing court practice. As such, Justice Girish Chandra Lal was not overstepping his authority. Appropriate dress is required in the courtroom and the lawyers involved are expected to instruct clients and third parties to dress appropriately if they will be appearing in the courtroom. It is also the responsibility of the court to notify that all court proceedings are formal proceedings, and all persons entering the courtroom are expected to be dressed in clothing reasonably befitting the dignity and solemnity of the court. They are expected to be respectful of the judge, the court personnel and opposing counsel. A minimum level of formality is the court norm in all common law jurisdictions. T-shirts may not qualify as formal attire in any jurisdiction.